The timing of your stationery affects guests’ travel plans and your caterer’s deadlines. Here is the standard timeline — and how to adjust it.
The standard timeline
| Item | Local wedding | Destination or holiday weekend |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding website | Before save-the-dates | 12 months before |
| Save-the-dates | 6–8 months before | 8–12 months before |
| Invitations | 6–8 weeks before | About 3 months before |
| RSVP deadline | 3–4 weeks before | 4–6 weeks before |
| Final numbers to caterer | Per contract (often 1–3 weeks) | Per contract |
Save-the-dates
Send them once the venue and date are confirmed and the guest list is settled — anyone who receives one must get an invitation. Digital save-the-dates are perfectly acceptable.
Invitations
Order invitations at least three to four months before the wedding, and allow time for addressing, assembly and a trip to the post office. Weigh one complete invitation before buying stamps; square envelopes and wax seals may need extra postage.
What to include
On a save-the-date: your names, the date, the city or venue, “Invitation to follow” and your wedding website.
In an invitation suite: the invitation itself, an RSVP card or website link, a details card (reception, accommodation, dress code) and the outer envelope. A website can replace most inserts.
Postage and mailing
Take one complete, sealed invitation to the post office to weigh it before buying stamps. In the US, square envelopes and rigid or lumpy items (wax seals, ribbon) often need extra postage and may need hand-canceling. Mail a test invitation to yourself first.
RSVPs
Set the deadline three to four weeks before the wedding. That leaves time to chase missing replies, finalize numbers and build the seating chart.
Guests traveling from abroad
Give international guests as much notice as you can — a personal message even before save-the-dates is thoughtful. Some will need time for passports, visas, leave from work and fares. If a guest needs an invitation letter for a visa application, include the full names, dates, venue address and your contact details.
General information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Confirm details with your vendors, venue, officiant and local authorities.
Questions people ask
How far in advance should you send wedding invitations?
Six to eight weeks for local weddings; about three months for destination weddings.
Do you need save-the-dates?
They are optional but helpful, especially for destination weddings, holiday weekends and guests who travel.
When should the RSVP be due?
Three to four weeks before the wedding.
Can you send save-the-dates by email?
Yes. Digital save-the-dates are common and perfectly polite. Send paper to anyone who doesn’t use email.
Does everyone who got a save-the-date need an invitation?
Yes. A save-the-date is a promise of an invitation, so only send them to people you are certain to invite.
